Project Description:
The proposed project is a multi-state system change collaborative designed to assist six state developmental disabilities (DD) agencies incorporate person-centered planning (PCP) tools and practices as integral components within the infrastructure of each state?s service delivery system.The project extends efforts currently underway in the six states to train provider agency staff,individuals receiving support, families and others in person-centered methods. Using a multilevel participatory approach, the project will develop the capacity of each of the six states to provide, sustain, train and evaluate effective person-centered planning models through active
inter-state collaboration, the provision of targeted technical assistance and the preparation and distribution of state of the art educational and specialized materials. A dynamic ?Community of
Practice? will be developed to help each participating state: (a) strengthen and expand the use of existing PCP models and practices, (b) assure existing PCP processes incorporate both formal
and information support and community network assessment tools, (c) improve the training furnished to professionals, direct support staff and others in PCP practices and policies, and (d)build the capacity of individuals receiving support and their caregivers to access and maintain a network of community ties and friendships.Key strategies that will be used to achieve greater person-centered approaches will be (a) the systematic implementation of Essential Lifestyle Planning (ELP) processes and tools, (b)caregiver assessments, and (c) building person-centered organizations through the development of effective and productive partnerships among state developmental disabilities agencies,provider agencies, individuals receiving support and their families and friends, professionals, and others in the community. These efforts will result in changes at three levels including: Level One changes in day to day practice that impact persons? lives and their relationships with formal and informal supports; Level Two changes in provider agency management and leadership affecting
organizational policy, practice, and program outcomes, and Level Three changes in service delivery system infrastructure statewide resulting from changes in regulation, state policy and
system design.The project evaluation will examine the effectiveness of the project in reaching intended goals and outcomes and will assist local projects in determining results of implementation strategies.
Individual outcomes to be assessed annually include:
�� The numbers and percentage of individuals and their families and/or advocates who report
meaningful levels of involvement in the development of PCPs;
�� The numbers and percentage of plans that are implemented utilizing PCP practices within
each system; and
�� The number and percentage of individuals whose needs are met though PCPs as defined by
including what is important to them personally (their preferences) and what is important for
them in terms of their health, safety and access to valued social roles in plans.
Core Function(s):
Performing Technical Assistance and/or Training, Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information
